It is impossible to know from external appearances what kinds of interior burdens people carry with them throughout life. In fact, if we knew the inside story of most people’s lives, we would gain a deep reverence for them and a respect for their perseverance through the difficulties that only they have experienced and that only they know.

One such example that I have shared with the staff is of the famous German Renaissance artist, Albrecht Dürer (1471-1528) and his younger brother Albert, whose inner burdens were hidden to all but a few during their lifetimes. It is a story of how one person’s suffering can transform another and even have an extraordinary effect on the world.

Albrecht and his brother Albert came from a middle class family of eighteen children. Both boys wanted to be artists, but their parents could not afford to send the pair of them to the academy (art school) as they desired. In fact, it was unlikely that they could even afford to send one of the boys to a school of that type.
One night the two brothers made a pact. They would toss a coin, and the loser of the coin toss would go to work in the coal mines near their home in order to support his brother during his years of study.

Four years after that, they would reverse roles: the brother who went to school would then be able to work and make money and would support the other brother as the latter studied and pursued his dreams of becoming an artist.

As providence would have it, Albrecht won the coin toss and spent four years in the academy learning and applying his trade. He proved to be something of a prodigy at drawing, painting, and woodcutting, even surpassing his teachers in artistic ability.

When four years passed and it came time to send Albrecht’s younger brother to school, poor Albert broke down sobbing. He showed his brother his working hands that had been damaged during the previous four years.

He told Albrecht that every bone in his hands had been broken at least once by the hard labor in the coal mines. His hands were rough, disfigured, and arthritic. It was now impossible for him to do the fine and delicate work of an artist.

It is said that Albrecht was so moved by his brother’s sacrifice that he asked Albert to pose in prayer for him. He then drew the famous ink and pencil sketch as a model for the world the sacrifice of hard work, and importance of showing gratitude.

I am so fond of this story. This image has personal connection to me. In 1997, I drew a pen and ink version for my sister who lost a child at birth. The image is a beacon in our family. 

Our hands tell a story. Look at your hands and see the gifts that you can hold, communicate, share, and design.  

The last few weeks of school will provide an opportunity to use our hands to demonstrate so many accomplishments. Embrace the moment. The hard work and sacrifice that you put in today will provide endless opportunities tomorrow. Make today a work of your hands.

The Senior class is excited to celebrate the 2022 Prom together at La Vera, in Willoughby, OH. This will be a traditional prom that allows seniors and guests to participate. This year, students may select their seats at prom. Once a seat is selected, the seat will fill in gray color. As an example, groups that would be interested in guaranteeing a table of 4, 6, or 8 would need to purchase their tickets on one transaction and reimburse the one purchasing the bulk tickets. Table placards will be available for students at the check-in. The Junior Executive Student Council is excited to put on this event for the students. Tickets go on sale on May 1, 2022.

Monday, May 2: White Day Schedule
Tuesday, May 3: White Day Schedule
Wednesday, May 4: Red Day Schedule
Thursday, May 5: Black Day Schedule
Friday, May 6: White Day Schedule

​​Good Afternoon, Senior parents-

The graduating class of 2022 will have their Senior Picnic at Munson Township Park on Friday, May 27 from 12:00 - 3:00pm. There will be a DJ, volleyball, basketball, tennis, cornhole games, prizes, food & MORE! IT'S GOING TO BE AWESOME!!

Students are encouraged to bring volleyballs, basketballs, and other sports equipment.

All we need for this to be a PERFECT DAY for Seniors is good weather and AMAZING PARENT VOLUNTEERS to help with this event!!!  The more the merrier! Even if you cannot attend, any food or donations you can make will be wonderful.

The school is providing the hotdogs, hamburgers, buns, veggies & fruit, and plates, napkins & silverware as well . They also have a grill for us to use that day. 

Donations such as restaurant gift cards, movie passes, gas cards, goodies for college, and any other prizes are greatly appreciated. Your help will make this final send off before graduation day SO SPECIAL and FUN!

Please review the available slots below and click on the button to sign up. Thank you!

-2022 Senior Moms Picnic Committee

Come and be a part of Chardon After Prom!

We are parent and community volunteers who plan and support the After Prom event as well as other high school activities.

Join us on Mondays and Wednesdays while we make decorations for After Prom in May. We meet in the high school cafeteria from 7-9pm.

If you want more information or have any questions email us at chardonafterprom@gmail.com. Don't forget to like us on Facebook, and to get the latest updates follow us on Twitter @CAfterprom
You can visit the After Prom website too to find out more about us!

​
Monday
Hilltopper Bowl
Popcorn Chicken
Mashed Potatoes*
Homemade Gravy
Steamed Corn*
Chilled Applesauce*
Chicken Patty Sandwich
Cheeseburger*
Asst. Salads*
Asst. Pizza

Tuesday 
General TSO
California Blend Vegetables*
Seasoned Rice *
Pineapple cup*
Fortune Cookie
Chicken Patty Sandwich
Cheeseburgers
Asst. Salads*
Asst. Pizza 

Wednesday
Pasta Time!! 
Rotini Pasta with
Alfredo or Marinara sauce
Garlic Toast
Steamed Broccoli*
Italian Ice*
Chicken Patty Sandwich
Cheeseburgers
Asst. Salads*
Asst. Pizza

Thursday
Corn Dogs
Crispy potatoes
Baked Beans*
Apple Slices*

Mixed Fruit *
Chicken Patty Sandwich
Asst. Salads*
Pizza Hut Pizza

Friday
Homemade Pepperoni 
Rolls / Dipping sauce
Green Beans*
Banana*
Home-baked Cookie
Chicken Patty Sandwich
Asst. Salads*
Asst. Pizza

Community Flyers (NEW)

Mr. Murray’s YouTube Page

The Hilltop Echo (School Newspaper)

Video Announcements: Link for the Morning Announcements

Week in Reflection: This is the Weekly Publication for Parents/Students/Staff

Chardon High School: Program of Study

Chardon High School Bell Schedule; Google Document of our bell schedule

Chardon High School Student Handbook

Teacher Resources for CHS Students 

Student Acceptable Use Policy (All Students Must Sign)
​
Chardon High School Google Calendar

Chardon Athletics Sports Calendar

Remind101 Text Message:  https://www.remind.com/join/chs21-22

Twitter- Follow @chs_dmurray  @chardonhs  @toppernation   @chs_AP_Higham  @mrs_bondi

Shout-out to Mr. and Mrs. Heflin, Carolyn Heflin and Raegan Rideout for our awesome conversation at Joey's giving me the motivation to finish this Week in Reflection! Have a great weekend!

Douglas Murray, Principal

Time. This is one thing that is always inevitable. Yet, this one thing can be experienced differently by each of us. It is hard to believe how quickly our time has passed. Every second inside of every minute can pass how we choose to use it. If we chose to stare at a clock, time would feel like forever. The more we are all actively involved with tasks, events, and enjoyment--the faster time is experienced by each of us. The old adage, "Time flies when you are having fun" rings a persistent tone this time of year. Why? Mostly due to the constant movement, experiences, events, and activities that happen inside of the time that we are given.  The last three months have been packed with events each week, and it feels like life is become more and more normal. Recently, I spoke to the senior class about all of the memories that they are making and how these moments should be cherished and remembered. These are great days for our class of 2022! 

Seniors:

After today, you have 20 class days and 36 calendar days before graduation. It can seem like a lifetime or can be a flash in front of you.  The choice is yours. Seniors, it seems like the finish line has already come and gone...but there is still essential time left. Time for yourself, time for each other, time for learning, and memories to be made. You only graduate high school once, Embrace it, live each moment, be active in your choices. The choices that you make today can determine the person that you become. Be true to who you are and keep your eyes on the goal--you are too close to let go of your dreams.

Juniors

Your 25 school days are going to be relentless. Focus on managing your time on what you can control. Your job is your academics. Your job is transitioning into the leaders of our school. Your job remains clear; YOU matter, YOUR grades matter; YOUR decisions matter. Learn from those that have gone before you and seize little opportunities that arise. We believe in you.

Sophomores

Your 25 school days linger with a reminder that you are about to transition into a challenging year. Many of you are learning the difference between dependence versus independence. The time is now to walk the talk. You are just coming out of your shell, and wondering what is up, down, and around you. You have seen so many challenging moments with relationships, coursework, and leadership but you are wondering if anyone notices you. We do, but we are not going to hold your hand through this--it is time to choose. We will always be there for you.

Freshman

Your 25 school days are determined by the habits that you have made. So many people have walked beside you, guided you, and assisted you. You recognize that you are a part of a bigger family but sometimes feel like the little sibling. You have an essential role. You are the key to the transition of our 8th graders. What you say---they believe. What you do---younger students follow. In reality, your task is enormous in living our core values not only for yourself but for your classmates. Believe in YOU!

8th Graders

Your 25 school days are so imperative to your maturation and growth.  SO many of you are ending this year with high school credit--and that is very exciting! At times, it has felt like you were the only ones in the building this year. Our staff have spent so much time and energy in guiding you and investing in you because you are essential part of our story. You made history this year by coming to the building; the time is NOW to be the leader that we prepared you for. Seize these days to look in the mirror and reflect on your growth along the way---all the while finishing your work and making those marks!

Staff

You are the conductor of the music that we hear each day. Sure, the sound may resonate well from a distance, but only you see what needs to be refined. Continue to coordinate the sound with the beauty that sets the tempo of our pulse as a whole. After most performances, the conductor bows while the orchestra receives the accolades. WE see your influence. WE appreciate your countless preparation. WE see your impact- especially after a long tour. 

Quick Reference for State Testing
Quick Reference for the next two months

April 25: AIR Test (Math - Grade 8, Algebra I, and Geometry) - RED TESTING DAY
April 26: “Your Life, Your Choice” Senior Field Trip - BLACK DAY
April 27: AIR Test (Science - Grade 8 and Biology) - RED TESTING DAY
April 28: Envirothon Competition -BLACK DAY
April 29: AIR Test (Social Studies - Government and American History) MAP testing 

Read online

On Wednesday, Dominic came back to his alma mater to meet the Executive President, and Executive Officers to talk about class of 2022. I had the opportunity to sit in that meeting to listen to all of the wonderful stories that the students had to share with Dominic. It was fascinating to see the paths that they crossed as collective Hilltoppers, and it was great for Dominic to see the continued growth of the educational outcomes of our students. 

For those that do not know--Dominic Ferrante has lived his entire life on the east side of Cleveland. After a short time in Mayfield, he moved out to Chardon and has lived there ever since. Dominic is most supported by his mother and father, two younger twin brothers and an older sister. Dominic's purpose and energy started to bloom during his years at Chardon High School. As a junior, Dominic  worked with Mr. Murray to realign our digital audience on the morning announcements. He was actively involved in AC4P, Student Council, Band, and numerous service activities. After attending Chardon High school and graduating in 2016, Dominic continued his education at Bowling Green State University.

While at BG, Dominic worked for the on-campus news station as an anchor and reporter. Dominic also worked at the local PBS station as a production assistant for a variety of different shoots. While working for PBS, Dominic’s favorite position was working floor camera for the BGSU men’s basketball games.
Dominic graduated from BGSU in 2020 with a B.S in Media and Communication and a minor in Journalism. While finishing his senior year at BG, Dominic started working as an intern with WKYC. He was ultimately hired on as a part-time photographer working the weekend morning shift, commuting back and forth from BG to Cleveland to work. 

After a short period working part-time, Dominic was hired full-time at WKYC as a photojournalist. While working as a photographer, Dominic has started to expand his career as a reporter. Dominic's talents as a photographer and editor have earned him three Emmy nominations. Dominic is a young entrepreneur who is innovative, a creative visionary, and always looking to recreate digital technology. 
In his free time Dominic loves spending time with his dogs and girlfriend, Morgan. If not there, Dominic can be found on the bike path or flying his drone.
​
Dominic is excited to come back to his alma mater to share is evolving 4E pathway with the graduates of 2022.  ​

​Polymer clay 'creatures' by Selah Rogers, Estefany Vazquez, Kelly Morris, and Liam Ptasznik

Come and be a part of Chardon After Prom!

We are parent and community volunteers who plan and support the After Prom event as well as other high school activities.

Join us on Mondays and Wednesdays while we make decorations for After Prom in May. We meet in the high school cafeteria from 7-9pm.

If you want more information or have any questions email us at chardonafterprom@gmail.com. Don't forget to like us on Facebook, and to get the latest updates follow us on Twitter @CAfterprom
You can visit the After Prom website too to find out more about us!

Photos from GTV

Community Flyers (NEW)

Mr. Murray’s YouTube Page

The Hilltop Echo (School Newspaper)

Video Announcements: Link for the Morning Announcements

Week in Reflection: This is the Weekly Publication for Parents/Students/Staff

Chardon High School: Program of Study

Chardon High School Bell Schedule; Google Document of our bell schedule

Chardon High School Student Handbook

Teacher Resources for CHS Students 

Student Acceptable Use Policy (All Students Must Sign)
​
Chardon High School Google Calendar

Chardon Athletics Sports Calendar

Remind101 Text Message:  https://www.remind.com/join/chs21-22

Twitter- Follow @chs_dmurray  @chardonhs  @toppernation   @chs_AP_Higham  @mrs_bondi

It is hard to fathom how fast our time has come and gone this year. Where did our time go? Did I do enough, say enough, or even prepare you enough for this moment? I look at you and see me. I look at my own struggles, joys, and moments of excitement (when I was your age) and wonder how quickly our time has come and gone.

Do you I am your biggest fan? Do you know that I will always be there during good times and bad? Do you know how much my love is unconditional for you?

I am so proud of you, and I know that these 29 days are going to be tough for you. I know that you are spent, exhausted, and ready to move on...but, never forget how you got to this moment. Never forget the failures and success that refined you. Never forget the support that each of us provided for you and always will. 

So, in these last school days live every moment in the present. Love every celebration, and know that journey only begins when you cross the finish line. You are almost there! Hang on, push forward, dig deeper, and know that my embrace is a door away. We believe in you--BELIEVE IN YOUR ABILITY-- your journey is a moment away!

Have a beautiful weekend with family and friends!

​Douglas Murray, Principal

Rain, Rain, Go Away! It has been a long wait for spring, and it almost feels like the long and winding road of winter has never left. In spring sport news, we can share that even away games on turf fields cancel as the rain turned into storms. With the pockets of sunshine and the hope for a dry tomorrow, there is hope that we will play outside more consistently than we have been. We snuck a few outdoor events this week which was certainly better than our previous weeks. 

​More recently, we shared with our staff, families, and students about the volume of events and schedules that are upcoming.  It is daunting when you stare at the spreadsheet of dates and experiences. We each need to take it day by day and week by week.  

Keep in mind that today's stress is tomorrow's opportunity. Yes, there are so many things to check off the list, but at least we have a list. I am very appreciative of your patience as we continue to build each event and detail. 

The most important thing that we each can do is support each other, our students, our community, and demonstrate gratitude for the little things.

So, when you wake up in the morning and smile at the rising sun (every few days), pause to hear those song  birds singing sweet songs...and celebrate the moment.

The spring brings upon new growth and energy. Smile and seize the beauty in front of you.  Make today great and nurture each other! 

Mike Meleski (Class of 2022) donated his hair on Monday for the second time to patients fighting cancer. The first time was back in 2014 he donated 12 inches and tonight he is donating 16 inches!

 AHLI members would like to thank everyone who donated over 277 items during the Sub Zero Project.  Enclosed are the images from their service project! We are so grateful for the students and leadership of Mrs. Yeager who organized this project. 

Quick Reference for State Testing
Quick Reference for the next two months

April 15: Good Friday - No school
April 18: Conference Comp. Day - No school
April 19: School Resumes/ Senior Class Meeting during Topper Time
April 22: Staff v Senior Students Volleyball game (Assembly)
April 25: AIR Test (Math - Grade 8, Algebra I, and Geometry) - RED TESTING DAY
April 26: “Your Life, Your Choice” Senior Field Trip - BLACK DAY
April 27: AIR Test (Science - Grade 8 and Biology) - RED TESTING DAY
April 28: Envirothon Competition -BLACK DAY
April 29: AIR Test (Social Studies - Government and American History) MAP testing 

Monday, April 18: Conference Comp. Day - No school
Tuesday, April 19: White Day Schedule
Wednesday, April 20: Red Day Schedule
Thursday, April 21: Black Day Schedule
Friday, April 22- White Day Schedule (w/Assembly)

Read online

Dominic Ferrante has lived his entire life on the east side of Cleveland. After a short time in Mayfield, he moved out to Chardon and has lived there ever since. Dominic is most supported by his mother and father, two younger twin brothers and an older sister. Dominic's purpose and energy started to bloom during his years at Chardon High School. As a junior, Dominic  worked with Mr. Murray to realign our digital audience on the morning announcements. He was actively involved in AC4P, Student Council, Band, and numerous service activities. After attending Chardon High school and graduating in 2016, Dominic continued his education at Bowling Green State University.

While at BG, Dominic worked for the on-campus news station as an anchor and reporter. Dominic also worked at the local PBS station as a production assistant for a variety of different shoots. While working for PBS, Dominic’s favorite position was working floor camera for the BGSU men’s basketball games.
Dominic graduated from BGSU in 2020 with a B.S in Media and Communication and a minor in Journalism. While finishing his senior year at BG, Dominic started working as an intern with WKYC. He was ultimately hired on as a part-time photographer working the weekend morning shift, commuting back and forth from BG to Cleveland to work. 

After a short period working part-time, Dominic was hired full-time at WKYC as a photojournalist. While working as a photographer, Dominic has started to expand his career as a reporter. Dominic's talents as a photographer and editor have earned him three Emmy nominations. Dominic is a young entrepreneur who is innovative, a creative visionary, and always looking to recreate digital technology. 
In his free time Dominic loves spending time with his dogs and girlfriend, Morgan. If not there, Dominic can be found on the bike path or flying his drone.
​
Dominic is excited to come back to his alma mater to share is evolving 4E pathway with the graduates of 2022.  

Come and be a part of Chardon After Prom!

We are parent and community volunteers who plan and support the After Prom event as well as other high school activities.

Join us on Mondays and Wednesdays while we make decorations for After Prom in May. We meet in the high school cafeteria from 7-9pm.

If you want more information or have any questions email us at chardonafterprom@gmail.com. Don't forget to like us on Facebook, and to get the latest updates follow us on Twitter @CAfterprom
You can visit the After Prom website too to find out more about us!

The following information was shared with all students this week.

Dear parents and guardians, 

Please note that it is a requirement for students to be current on Ohio Department of Health immunizations in order to attend school. Students can be excluded if non-compliant with immunizations. Attached is a document which reflects when dosing is required for children. For the purposes of high school, a student must have a second dose of the meningococcal vaccine prior to entry into 12th grade. It is helpful to have these appointments scheduled over the summer so as to be compliant when school starts. If your child has not received the second meningococcal vaccine prior to the start of the 2022-2023 school year, an immunization exemption form must be completed after the 15th day of school is complete while waiting for completion of the vaccination series. 

Please feel free to call any of the district nurses with questions on the policy regarding immunizations. 

Best regards, 

Sarah Park BSN

Tuesday​
Hilltopper Bowl
Popcorn Chicken
Mashed Potatoes*
Homemade Gravy
Steamed Corn*
Chilled Apple sauce*
Chicken Patty Sandwich
Cheeseburger*
Asst. Salads*
Asst. Pizza

Wednesday
Pasta Time!! 
Rotini Pasta with
Alfredo or Marinara sauce
Garlic Toast
Steamed Broccoli*
Italian Ice*
Chicken Patty Sandwich
Cheeseburgers
Asst. Salads*
Asst. Pizza

Thursday
Cheeseburgers or
Spicy Chicken Patty
Sandwich
Crispy potatoes*
Carrots*
Raisins*
Mixed Fruit *
Chicken Patty Sandwich
Asst. Salads*
Pizza Hut Pizza


Friday
Sloppy Joe or 
BBQ Pork on Bun
Fritos*
Apples*
Home-baked Cookie
Chicken Patty Sandwich
Asst. Salads*
Asst. Pizza

Community Flyers (NEW)

Mr. Murray’s YouTube Page

The Hilltop Echo (School Newspaper)

Video Announcements: Link for the Morning Announcements

Week in Reflection: This is the Weekly Publication for Parents/Students/Staff

Chardon High School: Program of Study

Chardon High School Bell Schedule; Google Document of our bell schedule

Chardon High School Student Handbook

Teacher Resources for CHS Students 

Student Acceptable Use Policy (All Students Must Sign)
​
Chardon High School Google Calendar

Chardon Athletics Sports Calendar

Remind101 Text Message:  https://www.remind.com/join/chs21-22

Twitter- Follow @chs_dmurray  @chardonhs  @toppernation   @chs_AP_Higham  @mrs_bondi

Have a beautiful weekend with your family and friends this weekend! 
​Douglas Murray, Principal

Life in the Fast lane. 

This is probably the best phrase, song, and way to describe the past week. Many steps (literally) were walked this week as we observed classrooms, met with teachers, students, went to meetings,  and ran ELA testing. The weather certainly didn't cooperate as Mr. Snyder postponed or re-scheduled dozens of games. 

We also had important meetings with students to instill our PBIS focus on the core value of nurture. The year has been filled with so many examples of outreach both in and out of the building, but our work is never complete towards instilling the expected behaviors we desire in raising today's teenagers. It certainly take a village! There were many examples to remind us to take a moment to get out of the fast lane to  pause and be reminded of our purpose. 

Ferris Bueller,  in the classic film,  said it best- "Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” There are so many moments that have passed by, and so many moments upcoming. With all of the moving parts that connect to the end the school year-- and with the countless decisions being made on a moments notice--pause, show gratitude, and celebrate the little things inside of each moment. Don't allow your life in the fast lane --make you lose your mind. 

You will notice in the Week in Reflection less community advertisements moving forward directly in newsletters to help streamline our building information. All principals will begin sending any notices to the district communications director. We appreciate the work that Kelly Misch has put in to organize a new page to organize all of these great opportunities. I will link it each week in my resource section.​

Quick Reference for State Testing
Quick Reference for the next two months

April 2022
April 13: Senior Mentor Training Day  7:15-8:45 am
April 15: Good Friday - No school
April 18: Conference Comp. Day - No school
April 19: School Resumes
April 22: Staff v Senior Students Volleyball game (Assembly)
April 25: AIR Test (Math - Grade 8, Algebra I, and Geometry) - RED TESTING DAY
April 26: “Your Life, Your Choice” Senior Field Trip - BLACK DAY
April 27: AIR Test (Science - Grade 8 and Biology) - RED TESTING DAY
April 28: Envirothon Competition -BLACK DAY
April 29: AIR Test (Social Studies - Government and American History) MAP testing 

Monday, April 11: White Day Schedule
Tuesday, April 12: White Day Schedule
Wednesday, April 13: Red Day Schedule
Thursday, April 14: Black Day Schedule
Friday, April 15- NO SCHOOL (Good Friday)
Monday, April 18- NO SCHOOL (Easter Monday)

The Maple Festival Board is now accepting applications for the 2022 Geauga County Maple Festival’s Queen and King Contest. 

Applications can be found on the Maple Festival’s website at:
​
https://www.maplefestival.com/queens-pageant.html
https://www.maplefestival.com/kings-pageant.html

Contest is  open to students in grades 9-12 residing or attending school in Geauga county.
Deadline is April 15. If you need more  information, please contact: queens@maplefestival.com, 440-487-3224   ​

Read online

8th-grade AHLI members would like to thank everyone who donated over 277 items during the Sub Zero Project. 

Come and be a part of Chardon After Prom!

We are parent and community volunteers who plan and support the After Prom event as well as other high school activities.

Join us on Mondays and Wednesdays while we make decorations for After Prom in May. We meet in the high school cafeteria from 7-9pm.

If you want more information or have any questions email us at chardonafterprom@gmail.com. Don't forget to like us on Facebook, and to get the latest updates follow us on Twitter @CAfterprom
You can visit the After Prom website too to find out more about us!

 Community Flyers (NEW)

Mr. Murray’s YouTube Page

The Hilltop Echo (School Newspaper)

Video Announcements: Link for the Morning Announcements

Week in Reflection: This is the Weekly Publication for Parents/Students/Staff

Chardon High School: Program of Study

Chardon High School Bell Schedule; Google Document of our bell schedule

Chardon High School Student Handbook

Teacher Resources for CHS Students 

Student Acceptable Use Policy (All Students Must Sign)
​
Chardon High School Google Calendar

Chardon Athletics Sports Calendar

Remind101 Text Message:  https://www.remind.com/join/chs21-22

Twitter- Follow @chs_dmurray  @chardonhs  @toppernation   @chs_AP_Higham  @mrs_bondi

Have a beautiful weekend with family and friends!
Douglas Murray, Principal